Steve Nash plans to play for Lakers tonight, source says

Steve Nash, who has played only 10 games this season because of nerve irritation in his back and hamstrings, reportedly plans to play tonight against the Washington Wizards at Staples Center. (Brad Graverson/Staff Photographer)

After completing all portions of the Lakers’ non-contact practice Thursday, Lakers guard Steve Nash plans to play Friday against the Washington Wizards at Staples Center, according to a league source.

Lakers coach Mike D’Antoni had ruled Nash out last week because of nerve irritation in his back and hamstrings that sidelined him for all but 10 games. But the Lakers have only one true point guard in Kendall Marshall, who is still expected to start against Washington.

Jordan Farmar is expected to be sidelined for at least two weeks because of strained right groin, while the Lakers struggled in their 125-109 loss Wednesday to San Antonio with a by-committee backcourt of Jodie Meeks, Kent Bazemore and Xavier Henry.

Nash hasn’t played a game since Feb. 11 and has averaged 7.6 points and 4.7 assists in 10 games. But he told this newspaper last week that he has felt healthy enough to play after spending recent weeks rehabbing his back and hamstrings and completing shooting drills. The Lakers have been reluctant to play him for both health reasons, also wishing to evaluate their young players.

Nash, who is under contract for next season worth $9.7 million, plans to return next season.